Introducing the Proposed GAL Guidelines for

Civil Family Law Cases

Presented by Family Law Section

1.0 hr. CLE

About the event 

This course will introduce and explain the proposed Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Guidelines, including:

• Who may serve as a GAL (including criminal and DCS background checks)
• The ongoing duty to notify GAL Family Law Oversight Committee (contrast this with their immunity)
• Training requirements, annual continuing education requirements, and the courses/areas that fulfill the CE requirements
• The GAL's role and responsibilities
  • GAL is a party to the case and may fully participate in all aspects of court proceedings—with or without counsel.
  • GAL shall advocate for child’s best interests at all stages of proceedings
  • GAL is independent 
  • GAL shall have in-person, direct, and sufficient contact with the child 
  • GAL must make a written or oral report to the court, to be filed min of 10 days before hearing unless waived by parties or good cause shown
  • If a child expresses wishes or desires pertaining to issues before the court, the GAL must convey these unless the child has expressed otherwise or conveyance would compromise safety Requirement of a Written Court Order—whether by agreement or court ordered
  • Order to contain name, duties, costs, duration and adherence to GAL guidelines and code of ethics
• The duties of a GAL—to maintain best interest advocacy
  
  

Speakers:
Debra Lynch Dubovich, Levy & Dubovich
Moderator: Jill Goldenberg Schuman, Cohen, Garelick & Glazier 

Who might enjoy this

This CLE is a must, not simply for persons who serve or wish to serve as Guardians ad Litem, but also for all family law attorneys who deal with GALs in their cases, question GALs in court proceedings, or prepare their clients for GAL investigations. 

Pricing

Family Law Section Members & GALs: Free

(Are you a GAL? Email Leah Baker, lbaker@inbar.org, before registering to get a promo code to apply to your registration.)

ISBA Members: $25 

Non-Members: $50

Program link

Please register (using the button at the top of the page) to receive the program link, which will be included in your registration confirmation email.